British Basketball pay tribute to Kevin Cadle

Monday 16th October 2017

10:13 AM

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Kevin Cadle, one of British basketball’s most cherished voices and most recognisable names, has passed away at the age of 62.

A hugely successful and experienced coach with an energising, positive influence on all that he knew, Kevin had a record that most coaches would envy.

He won numerous titles in his time as a British Basketball League coach in his time at Kingston, Glasgow, Guildford and London Towers, taking Kingston to the quarter-finals of the Champions Cup.His recordis one few any British coach has ever managed to equal.

He also coached England, Scotland and was Head Coach for Great Britain at the qualifying tournament for the 1992 Olympics.

Kevin was always engaging with the media and became known for his popular and effervescent presence on Sky Sports, first with basketball and then with NFL. In recent months, he has become a popular commentator on EuroLeague games.

His passing is such a shock especially to those who saw him in such good form at the BBL All-Stars tournament.

Kevin leaves a wife, Lorraine and daughter Toia.

British Basketball Chairman Ian Curryer said “Kevin Cadle was a fantastic advocate for the game of basketball and his passion will be sorely missed. Above all, as many will confirm, he was a lovely man and we are deeply sorry for his family’s loss.”

Great Britain Head Coach Tony Garbelotto commented “Today, British Basketball lost a true legend. Apart from being one of the greatest coaches in British basketball history, he was also one of the biggest supporters of British players and coaches

He touched so many people from the basketball community in the most positive way possible. He will be incredibly missed by all of us. Rest in peace and our thoughts go out to his wife, daughter and family.”

British Basketball Performance Director, Mark Clark said “We ve lost a great of the British game and a wonderful person who was a friend and an inspiration. His coaching record speaks for itself. He was simply a great coach at the highest level. After time has enabled this news to be absorbed, we can really appreciate the impact Kevin had on our game. At this time my thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Former NBA player and Basketball England Board Member, Steve Bucknall said"I am very shocked and saddened by the news of Kevin. He was an inspirational coach, mentor and friend. He empowered so many of us to reach for the top of the achievement ladder in life. He believed that the sky was the limit to what one could achieve. May he RIP"

Basketball Scotland Chief Executive, Kevin Pringle:“We are all deeply saddened by the news of Kevin’s passing and our thoughts are with his family at this very difficult time. Kevin was involved as a coach in our leagues and of our National Team and played an instrumental role both in his work as a coach and later as an advocate for basketball in Britain. Kevin made a big impact on basketball in Scotland and Great Britain and will be sorely missed by those who worked with and knew him.”

Basketball Wales CEO, Gavin Williamssaid "Basketball Wales is saddened to hear today that Kevin Cadle, a true British Basketball great, has suddenly passed away. Kevin's coaching record in the BBL was second to none winning 30 domestic titles. Our condolences go out to all of Kevin's family, friends and the wider British Basketball community. His passion for the game will be missed.